Ruby Date Bars
Makes 36 Bars:
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3-cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1-8 ounce package chopped,pitted dates
1 1/2-cups water
3/4-cup sugar
2-teaspoons finely shredded lemon peel
1-tablespoon lemon juice
1-cup packed light brown sugar
1/2-cup butter or margarine
1/4-cup shortening
1/2-teaspoon salt
1/2-teaspoon baking soda
1/2-teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2-cups all purpose flour
1 1/4-cups quick cooking oats
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*1*
In a large saucepan,combine the cranberries,dates,water,
granulated sugar,lemon peel and lemon juice.
*2*
Bring the cranberry-date mixture to a boil over high heat,
stirring frequently.Reduce the heat and simmer,uncovered,
about 12 minutes or until the mixture is thickened,stirring
occasionally.Cool slightly.
*3*
Preheat oven to 375.Grease a 13x9x2-inch baking pan.
*4*
In a large mixing bowl,combine the brown sugar,butter,and
shortening.Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture
is light and fluffy.Add the salt,baking soda and cinnamon.
*5*
Add the flour,about 1/2 cup at a time.Once the flour is incorporated,
stir in the oats(the mixture will look crumbly).Set 2 cups
of the oat mixture aside for the topping.Press the remaining
oat mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
*6*
Evenly spread the cranberry-date mixture on top of the oat
mixture in the pan.Sprinkle with the reserved oat mixture.
Bake in the 375 oven for 25 to 27 minutes or until the
topping is lightly browned.Cool on a wire rack.Cut into
2x1 1/2-inch bars.
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